Leaked Rand analysis that sparked F-35 crisis
Flight International has obtained the RAND report that sparked a crisis for the F-35 program. According to the magazine, the F-35 is mentioned only briefly on a back-up slide. The F-35 was not singled out for criticism, but neither did its appearance in the war game measurably improve the blue force's odds of success. External Link | | Permalink | |
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5th-generation fighter for India and Russia to be different
India and Russia's joint work on developing a fifth-generation fighter will result in two different looking aircraft. India will have a two-seater version while the Russian one will be single seat.
Test results show Active Denial System as nonlethal weapon
U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory officials recently completed an extensive bioeffects research program for an invisible, counter personnel, directed-energy weapon known as the Active Denial System. Data showed that millimeter waves do not promote cancer or cause reproductive problems, and researchers also defined skin and eye exposure thresholds, as well as levels at which effective repel occurs. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Airmen support new Hollywood movie 'Eagle Eye'
Members of the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations will get ready for its close-up Sept. 26 as the movie "Eagle Eye" will be released to selected theaters around the country. The film features the C-17 Globemaster III, KC-135 Stratotanker, F-16 Fighting Falcon and C-130 Hercules External Link | | Permalink | |
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MBDA launches new hypersonic test bench
MBDA and Roxel are setting up a new hypersonic line called METHYLE (a test system for long-endurance hypersonic technologies) in the ramjet test facility of their Bourges-Subdray plant. The system has been developed with support from the European Union (FEDER fund), the Government, the Centre region, the Département of Cher and the city of Bourges. The METHYLE system is capable of simulating flight conditions up to Mach 7.5 (7500 km/h, 2400 Kelvin) for several minutes, for large-size mockups and prototypes, and thus comes as a unique test system in Europe and one of the very few resources of this type in the world. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. Navy Awards Northrop Grumman $125 Million Contract to Produce Fourth Lot of Airborne Electronic Attack Systems
The U.S. Navy has ordered a fourth lot of Northrop Grumman Corporation Improved Capability (ICAP) III airborne electronic attack systems for its fleet of EA-6B Prowlers under a firm, fixed-price, 31-month contract potentially valued at more than $125 million. This order is for nine complete systems, plus associated parts and spares. The first kit will be delivered in the third quarter of 2010. The new ALQ-218 receiver is the heart of the ICAP III Prowler, as are the sophisticated algorithms that allow selective-reactive jamming and precision threat geolocation capabilities. ICAP III also has the new Multifunction Information Distribution System (MIDS). MIDS, which features the U.S. military's primary data-link system, LINK 16, will enable these ICAP III Prowlers to become key nodes in the Marine Corps Marine Air Ground Task Force warfighting architecture. External Link | | Permalink | |
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NAVAIR completes Swiss aircraft buy
NAVAIR's Support and Commercial Derivative Aircraft Support Office Adversary Team recently completed a six year program to buy and refurbish 44 retired Swiss Air Force F-5 Freedom Fighters. These F-5N aircraft enable the Navy to fly in a dedicated adversary role until at least Fiscal Year 2015. Each Swiss F-5E is airlifted from RUAG's plant at Emmen, Switzerland, to St Augustine, Fla., in a U.S. Navy C-130T. The Swiss F-5’s are disassembled and stowed in a purpose-built frame designed and manufactured by Northrop Grumman. One of two frames was permanently at Emmen, and the other was always in transit. External Link | | Permalink | |
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MQ-8B Fire Scout Receives U.S. Navy Contract Award for Second Year of Low Rate Initial Production
Northrop Grumman's MQ-8B Fire Scout Vertical Takeoff and Landing Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (VTUAV) system demonstrates maturity as it moves into the second year of low-rate initial production (LRIP) with a $32.9 million contract award from the U.S. Navy's Naval Air Systems Command. The company received the award recently for the second of three planned LRIP buys. The Navy plans to conduct Technical Evaluation of the Fire Scout aboard an FFG-7 Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate in early 2009 and will conduct Operational Evaluation (OpEval) in the summer 2009. The Fire Scout will reach Initial Operating Capability soon after OpEval in 2009. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Chinese Flankers outgunned F-22s over Taiwan
Flight International reports that a RAND briefing in August showed that China could defeat America's F-22s by outnumbering them 72 to six. In the Rand war game, China launches an air attack with 72 Su-27s into Taiwan. The U.S. Air Force send six F-22s to defend the island but with only 48 air-to-air missiles, the Chinese went on to outnumber the Raptors and shot down their refueling tankers.
Keel-laying for Indian aircraft carrier
India's first Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC), originally named Air Defence Ship, will have its first keel laid at the Cochin Shipyard in December.
Turkey issue tenders for low and medium altitude air defense missile systems
Turkey's military procurement agency, the Undersecretariat for the Defense Industry (SSM), has issued a tender for the Turkish Low Altitude Air Defense Missile System (T-LALADMIS) and Turkish Medium Altitude Air Defense Missile System (T-MALADMIS). The T-LALADMIS RFP seeks to buy 18 self-propelled (wheeled or tracked) armored low altitude air defense missile systems with optional proposals for direct procurement, co-production and co-development of 27 additional low altitude air defense missile systems.
The T-MALADMIS RFP calls for one battalion headquarters and headquarters company and three batteries, each of which has a sufficient amount of launchers, missiles, radars, command-control and communication systems and other support equipment. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Taiwan optimistic over approval of U.S. weapons deal
Taiwan believes that there is still a chance for the Bush administration will notify Congress of a possible weapons package sale to the island before the current session closes.
U.S. Air Force PJs jumped on board ship in Pacific
Six U.S. Air Force pararescuemen were deployed from Kadena on an unusual mission to save two sailors injured on a container ship 750 nautical miles north of Saipan on Saturday. They provided medical support to the injured crew members of the ship while it sailed towards Saipan.
Once within 150 nautical miles from the island, HS-25 from the U.S. Navy launched two helicopters to pick them up.
Lockheed Martin offers F-35 deal to Canada
Canada can buy the F-35 fighter for around $50 million if it commits to the purchase by a certain time. The proposal would see countries putting in their orders for a five-year run of aircraft before a specific date in return for a firm fixed price. External Link | | Permalink | |
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NGC carried out successful test for Project Chloe
Last year, we reported on a project by the U.S DHS to develop a UAV to zap missiles from high altitude. Now Northrop Grumman says tests on Sept. 8 and 9 at Holloman Air Force Base has shown that a UAV operating at high altitudes can help defend airliners below it from SHORADS. Northrop said its infrared sensor was able to detect a missile launch, relay the information to an onboard missile tracker and then hit the missile with a blast from a laser.
EADS and Safran quarreling over A400M delay
Safran is unhappy over claims by EADS that the latest delay in the A400M program was its fault. EADS on Thursday blamed "the unavailability of the propulsion system" for the new delay to the first A400M flight.
Safran countered that it was Airbus to blame for the integration of the engine into a converted Lockheed Martin C-130 airlifter as a testbed. External Link | | Permalink | |
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X-band radar arrives in Israel
An American X-band radar used as an early-warning detector of ballistic missiles have deployed in Israel. The X-band was stationed this month at Nevatim military base in southern Israel along with 120 American personnel. External Link | | Permalink | |
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IAF upgrading its CH-53 fleet
The Israeli Air Force started an upgrade program called "Yasour 2025" to fit over 20 new electronic systems to their CH-53 helicopters.
Threat to Agra Air Base
The future home for India's Phalcon AEW&C fleet is under threat from a railway line that passes uncomfortably close to the runway. "Anybody can attack the air base from the train with the help of a shoulder mounted weapon. Even though the attack will not cause much damage it will send all the wrong signals," a senior Indian Air Force (IAF) said, speaking on condition of anonymity. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Britain considers dumping F-35B again
Times reported that Britain may consider pulling out of the F-35 project and studies have started to analyze whether Eurofighters could be adapted to fly off its newest aircraft carriers. The move is part of an increasingly desperate attempt to plug a £1.5 billion shortfall in the defense budget. The RAF's 25 new Airbus A400 transport aircraft could also be at risk.
IAF network-centric plans gone haywire
Indian Air Force chief Fali Homi Major said on Sunday that plans to have a network-centric command-and-control system has been delayed due to the late delivery of its AEW&C aircraft. "AF Net, may be (delayed by) a month or two. We were expecting it around December. Now it is coming around February," Major said. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Sunday, September 28, 2008
France sells property and radio frequencies to fund Rafales
The French government is selling property and radio frequencies to fund its Defense budget that will allow payment for deliveries of 14 Rafale combat aircraft from Dassault Aviation, eight Tiger attack helicopters from Eurocopter.
Russia plans new weapons systems
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has announced plans to modernize its armed forces and upgrade its nuclear deterrent.
Saudi Arabia - AN/FPS-117 Long Range Radar Upgrade (PDF)
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Saudi Arabia of a possible equipment upgrade of 17 AN/FPS-117 radars. The prime contractor will be Lockheed-Martin Aeronautics Company of Syracuse, New York. External Link | | Permalink | |
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BBC on Caspian Sea Monster
An article and some videos from BBC on the Caspian Sea Monster and its descendants.
Turkey - AIM-120C-7 AMRAAM Missiles (PDF)
The Government of Turkey has requested a possible sale of 107 AIM-120C-7 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM).
France - Upgrade E-3F AWACS Aircraft with Block 40/45 Mission Computing (PDF)
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to France of upgrades to E-3F AWACS Aircraft with Block 40/45 Mission Computing as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $400 million
C-133 Cargomaster retiring to museum
A C-133 Cargomaster aircraft is being retired to an aviation museum in California after hauling cargo in rural Alaska.
NATO Completes C-17 Agreement
From Aviation Week : NATO has arranged 12 members to commit to acquiring C-17 airlifters, marking the first major weapon systems purchase for the alliance in 30 years.
Russian President observed test launch of SS-21
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev observed the test launch of a Tochka-U (SS-21 Scarab) short-range tactical ballistic missile in a command and staff exercise in the southern Urals on Friday. The missile was launched at 3:10 p.m. Moscow time (11:10 GMT) at the Donguz proving ground in the Orenburg Region as part of a 74-day exercise, Ground Forces Commander Gen. Vladimir Boldyrev said. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Assassinated Syrian general was IAEA contact in Syria?
Last month, we reported that a Syrian Brigadier General was assassinated. Now there are media reports that he was the contact person for IAEA in Syria to help investigate the destruction of an alleged nuclear reactor by Israel. IAEA chief Mohamed ElBaradei revealed that its probe in Syria has been delayed because the agency's contact man in Syria was murdered.
ElBaradei also added that Iran is on the path to obtaining the necessary ingredients to make a nuclear bomb.
Malaysia selects EC725
The Royal Malaysian Air Force will replace its aging S-61 Nuri helicopters with the EC725 from Eurocopter. Prime Minister and Defense Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi announced this yesterday. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Full funding for Army JCA
House and Senate appropriators agreed to fully fund the U.S. Army’s request of $264 million for seven C-27Js in the 2009 defense appropriations bill. Earlier House appropriators had slashed funding for three of the Army’s aircraft in their version of the 2009 defense appropriations bill. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Pakistan border guards fire at Kiowa helicopters
Two American OH-58 reconnaissance helicopters escorting U.S. troops and Afghan border police were fired upon by Pakistani forces. The ground forces fired back at the Pakistani troops and the skirmish lasted about five minutes. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Hajimemashite
Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) form the phrase "Hajimemashite," which means "Nice to meet you" in Japanese, as they arrive at Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Clifford L. H. Davis
Generals disciplined over nuke mistake
The U.S. Air Force and Army have disciplined 17 senior officers over the mistaken shipment of fuses for nuclear warheads to Taiwan. Six Air Force generals were punished with some getting career ending punishments. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Russia dangles carrier contract to Ukraine
In return for allowing Russia's Black Sea Fleet to remain in Sevastopol after 2017, Moscow is willing to let Ukraine help build future Russian aircraft carriers. A Russian lawmaker told RIA Novosti that it will be expensive to modernize Russian shipyards in order to carry out construction as well. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Congress approves more F-22s and C-17s
The U.S. House and Senate authorizers have added a House-passed provision authorizing $523 million in advance procurement for another 20 F-22s in fiscal 2010. The bill includes $2.1 billion for six C-17 Globemaster III cargo planes not requested by the Pentagon. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Singapore to hold large exercise in Australia
Singapore will send six F-16s, four Apache helicopters, six Super Puma helicopters and two Chinooks to support a large-scale armor exercise in Australia. The war games at Shoalwater Bay will start from Oct. 3 and lasts till Nov. 16. External Link | | Permalink | |
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NATO upgrading ex-Soviet bloc helicopters for Afghan mission
In a bid to relief shortages of helicopters in Afghanistan, NATO is considering using Western funds to upgrade ex-Soviet bloc helicopters and deploy them there. Poland, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and Romania are willing to commit aircraft and crew but the helicopters lacked defensive aids against surface-to-air missiles and night vision capability. External Link | | Permalink | |
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L-3 Presents First Joint Cargo Aircraft to U.S. Army and Air Force
L-3 Communications announced that it has presented the first C-27J JCA to the joint program office on schedule and on budget. The aircraft is the first of 78 planned to be delivered to the Department of Defense. A formal ceremony marking the first aircraft delivery will take place in October at L-3's facility in Waco, Texas. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Czechs say Russian spies stir against planned U.S. missile defense facility
Czech Republic has accused Russian spies of stirring public sentiment against a planned U.S. missile defense base. The Czech counter-intelligence agency said in a report that the spies had focused on non-government organizations, politicians and the media to drum up opposition to the missile defense base. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Hope standoff penetrator glide bomb flight trials
Recent tests of the Hope standoff penetrator glide bomb has shown that performance shortfalls identified a year ago were remedied. The trial took place at the Swedish flight test center at Vidsel, using a Tornado IDS strike aircraft belonging to the German flight test center (WTD61) at Manching near Munich. External Link | | Permalink | |
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First A400M flight delayed
The first flight of the A400M until now planned before the end of 2008 will be postponed, because of the unavailability of the propulsion system. The first flight actually depends on the results of the test campaign to be done on the flying test bed, which should start in the coming weeks, and on the readiness of the propulsion system. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Northrop Grumman Receives $120 Million Order to Supply LITENING Gen 4 Targeting Sensor Systems
Northrop Grumman Corporation has received a $120 million contract order for delivery of LITENING Gen 4 targeting and sensor systems and related equipment to support the Air National Guard, Air Force Reserve Command and the U.S. Marine Corps. The order was the first Gen 4 award under an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract by the 647th Aeronautical Systems Squadron, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, as the executive agent for LITENING systems. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Thursday, September 25, 2008
Joel Fitzgibbon responds on the F-35
Australian Defense Minister Joel Fitzgibbon has responded in ABC1's Lateline news program on the controversy surrounding the capabilities of the F-35.
Fitzgibbon says he has been briefed twice by the Defense Department and he is confident the reports are inaccurate. External Link | | Permalink | |
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JSF Leaders Back In The Fight
Bill Sweetman says in his blog that he found the rebuttal by Lockheed Martin last week on the F-35 "remarkable."
All female C-17 crew to fly WASPs for reunion
An all-female C-17 crew from Charleston Air Force Base will fly their C-17 to pick up some of members of the group known as the Women Air Force Service Pilots for their reunion in Texas. The WASPs flew cargo missions, towed training targets, moved aircraft and did other noncombat activities to free up more male pilots for combat missions. There were 1,800 of them at the time. About 300 are sill living and 150 are expected at the reunion. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Gates wanted to pick cheapest tanker
U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates told the Senate Armed Services Committee that he toyed with the idea of changing the competition in the final days and making a decision based on which one offered the best deal. But he decided to cancel the competition because it became clear he couldn't get the job done until the last days of his tenure.
Raytheon Team to Provide U.S. Navy with Precision Aircraft Carrier Landing System
Raytheon Company has been awarded a $232.8 million contract for the system development and demonstration phase of the GPS-based Joint Precision Approach and Landing System (JPALS) program for shipboard applications. JPALS provides all-weather shipboard landing capability to assist the Navy with pinpoint landing accuracy on aircraft carriers. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Iraqi Air Force receives radar
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) has begun deliveries of Lynx II radars for the Iraqi Air Force. The radar will fit on five Hawker Beechcraft King Air 350ER intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Unkown drone crashed in Pakistan
A drone crashed in Pakistan this week and no one has come forward to claim ownership of the plane. The Pakistani military said the plane has been recovered while the Pentagon denies that the drone is theirs. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Brothers meet at 20,000 feet
Family reunions are always special, but for two brothers stationed at different bases in Southwest Asia their meeting at 20,000 feet over a combat zone is even more memorable. During the encounter Sept. 10, Capt. Jason Moraes, a KC-10 Extender pilot for the 380th Air Expeditionary Wing, refueled his older brother's B-1B Lancer from the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Pilots fly Lakota to Sioux powwow
Fort Polk's 5th Aviation Battalion has been flying the Army's new utility helicopter for a year, and Monday pilots had a chance to meet the namesake of their birds, the Lakota tribe of South Dakota. The pilots were invited to participate in the tribe's annual sun dance, a traditional religious and cultural ceremony that honors warriors and elders of the Lakota Sioux tribe that lent its name to the UH-72 Light Utility Helicopter. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Fighters escort El Al 767
France, Italy, Greece scrambled their fighters to escort a El Al 767 as it passed through their airspace on Wednesday. There was a report of bomb threat to the flight days before it took off from Paris. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Shenzhou VII lifts off tonight
Shenzhou VII will lift off between 9:07 pm and 10:27 pm (+8 GMT) Thursday with three on board. I wonder if they'll drink milk during their journey in space.
MQ-8B Fire Scout Demonstrates Multi-Mode Maritime Radar Capability
Northrop Grumman Corporation has demonstrated radar capability on its company-owned MQ-8B Fire Scout Vertical Unmanned Air System (VUAS) designated as "P6." The flight demonstrated Fire Scout's ability to search for, detect, and track multiple targets during a test surveillance mission. The demonstration was part of an on-going effort to expand upon the development capabilities of the MQ-8B Fire Scout. The flight took place on Sept. 19 at the Yuma Proving Ground, Ariz. test center. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Carrier-based launch system reaches milestone
The Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) took its next giant step toward fleet introduction Sept. 3, when it reached the 10,000 High Cycle Testing, Phase 1 milestone at the General Atomics test facility in Tupelo, Miss. HCT-1 was conducted in order to verify the performance capabilities of EMALS electrical and thermal power equipment, and the shipboard cycling rate of the energy storage subsystem. External Link | | Permalink | |
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First VH-71 Presidential Helicopter Production Aircraft Takes Flight
The VH-71 presidential helicopter program achieved another major milestone Sept. 22 when the first operational pilot production helicopter (PP-1) completed its maiden flight at AgustaWestland's facility in Yeovil, England. A U.S. Air Force crew will transport the helicopter aboard a C-17 cargo aircraft to U.S. Naval Air Station Patuxent River, MD, in early October. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Lockheed Martin’s Joint Air-To-Surface Standoff Missile Successful in Latest Flight Test
A Lockheed Martin Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) successfully completed a Product Upgrade Verification (PUV) flight test on Sept. 18 atWhite Sands Missile Range, NM. The missile successfully navigated through a preplanned route and struck its intended target. The PUV flight tests are designed to test new hardware. The primary test objective of this flight was to demonstrate Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver performance in a jamming environment. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Modified Hawkeye takes first flight
U.S. Navy E-2C Hawkeye 849, equipped with a new glass cockpit and navigation upgrades, completed its first test flight as part of the Communication Navigation Surveillance/Air Traffic Management system evaluation Aug. 13. The two-hour and 20 minute flight over the air station was conducted by CNS/ATM project lead and test pilot Pete Staufenberger, Bryan Pellatt and Lt. Cmdrs. James Borghardt and Mark Asahara of Air Test & Evaluation Squadron (VX) 20 at Pax. River. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Boeing Awarded Contract for B-52 Advanced Targeting
Boeing announced a $15 million contract award from the U.S. Air Force to develop advanced targeting capabilities for the B-52 Stratofortress. "This contract includes full integration of the SNIPER targeting pod, allowing the B-52 to have one of the most advanced targeting capabilities available for our warfighters," said Cathy Clothier, B-52 deputy program manager for Boeing. "Continuing to make upgrades and advancements to this platform is critical as we help the Air Force keep the B-52 as a relevant and viable asset now and into the future."
The contract also calls for the development of software that will better use new technologies such as the B-52 Multi-Function Color Display and a digital-integrated hand controller. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Decision Time for ARH
The Pentagon will soon complete its 60-day review of the Bell ARH-70 Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter program to see whether it should be canceled. Back in July, the Army reported to Congress that the Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter program had breached the 25 percent cost growth limit imposed by the Nunn-McCurdy statute.
France to beef up Afghanistan mission
France is sending transport helicopters, helicopter gunships and drones to Afghanistan to beef up its mission there. Prime Minister Francois Fillon said the reinforcements will be in place in a few weeks. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Agni-III clear for induction
India's nuclear capable Agni-III missile is ready for induction into the Army just two-and-half years following the first flight test.
Joint unmanned aircraft system mission crosses Atlantic
A USAF Air Combat Command RQ-4A Global Hawk unmanned aircraft system from the 9th Reconnaissance Wing at Beale Air Force Base, Calif., made a trans-Atlantic flight Sept. 20 with the assistance of Navy officials. The 19-hour flight from Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Md., to Southwest Asia had Air Force and Navy officials working together to save time and resources. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Art Nalls : Sea Harrier flew again this weekend
Art Nalls is back flying his Sea Harrier, report after the jump. We worked on the minor discrepencies on Saturday and set up for a flight on Sunday, after the local church services were over. We're trying to be good neighbors with such a loud machine.
On schedule, we rolled her out, cleaned the canopy, and I strapped in. The takeoff was perfect, using only partial power and then the moment of truth - - - I cycled the landing gear. (insert spine-tingling music here)
You might not think that such an operation would generate so much stress and anxiety, but it did. Our last troubles were all because of this simple operation, or lack of it. Four up and locked, four down and locked, four up and locked and I headed for the aerobatic working area.
I performed a few, basic aerobatic maneuvers as required by our operating limitations. All were complete and without any adverse qualities. A very impressive machine.
I returned to the airfield for a 78-knot landing, exercising the nozzle speed trim - also an impressive device. I turned off mid-field easily.
The type-rating check ride is scheduled for next weekend.
Protesters to greet USS George Washington
Demonstrations will be held during the arrival of the USS George Washington in Japan on Thursday. "Having a nuclear-powered carrier based in Yokosuka is like having a nuclear power plant built right next to our capital," said Masahiko Goto, a local lawyer who has led opposition to the deployment. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Air Force Special Operations Command upgrade plans
The U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command is quietly forging ahead with plans to upgrade its fleet. This is a report from Aviation Week on its progress.
IAEA to Iran : Prove us wrong
The IAEA wants Iran to proof that evidence found by the watchdog on the fabrication of nuclear missile warheads were fabricated. Tehran must "clarify the extent to which the documentation is factually correct and where, as it asserts, such information may have been fabricated or relates to non-nuclear purposes," director Mohamed ElBaradei said. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Senate Boosts Funding for Laser Weapons
The U.S. Senate included additional funds for laser programs in its fiscal 2009 defense authorization bill. The bill also include a provision requiring Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates to accelerate work that would make directed-energy weapons operational in the near future. External Link | | Permalink | |
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IAEA work in Syria inconclusive
The International Atomic Energy Agency has failed to find any evidence that Syria was attempting to build a nuclear reactor that was later destroyed by an Israeli air raid. "Samples taken from the site are still being analysed and evaluated by the agency but so far we have found no indications of any nuclear material," IAEA Director Mohamed ElBaradei told a meeting of the agency’s 35-nation board of governors.
Venezuela to buy K-8 trainers
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez revealed in a televised broadcast on Sunday that he plans to purchase 24 K-8 trainers from China. Chavez will conclude the purchase during his visit to China this week. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Japan plans SM3 test in November
Japanese destroyer Chokai will use an SM-3 missile to intercept a dummy ballistic missile in space over the Pacific near Hawaii in November.
Some Guard units may lose flight missions
U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton A. Schwartz said some flying missions at National Guard units may end. Schwartz said budget cuts and changing national security requirements are forcing the Air Force to have few flying assets and units. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Pakistani troops fired twice at American helicopters
Pakistani troops and tribesmen opened fire on two U.S. helicopters on Sunday after the aircraft entered Pakistan airspace. "The helicopters were heading towards our border. We were alert and when they were right on the boundary line we started aerial firing, they hovered for a few minutes and went back," an official said. External Link | | Permalink | |
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B-52 crash inspires romantic drama
Miramax is working on a film based on the crash of a B-52 bomber in Palomares, Spain in 1966. The story revolves around an American serviceman in the 1960s who is sent on an appeasement mission to a fishing town after the crash. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Blackswift: Cost vs. capability
Nick Adde and Ben Iannotta wrote this article on the merits of the Blackswift demonstrator, a bid to build a hypersonic plane.
First UK Tranche 2 Twin-seat Typhoon Begins Final Assembly
The first UK Tranche 2 twin-seat Typhoon is now in the final stages of assembly at BAE Systems Warton. The major units of the aircraft (BT017) have arrived at Warton’s final assembly facility after being manufactured in the partner nations’ facilities across Europe – the front fuselage is built at the BAE Systems Samlesbury site in Lancashire. Once delivered to the RAF, in late 2009, the jet will be used to train the next generation of Typhoon pilots. External Link | | Permalink | |
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NASA and USAF starting hypersonic centers at universities
From Aviation Week : NASA and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory are looking for university and industry partners to establish the national hypersonic science centers.
Germany rejects EADS plea over A400M
After consulting with partner nations France and Britain, German defense minister Franz Josef Jung has rejected a written request from Louis Gallois, EADS chief executive, for discussions about reducing the penalties EADS has to pay for the A400M delivery delays. Jung cited that Airbus, a EADS company, was profitable last year. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Monday, September 22, 2008
Sweden probing Gripen sale to South Africa
The Anti-Corruption Unit of the Swedish Prosecution Authority has opened a an investigation into the sale of Saab Gripen fighters to South Africa about three months ago. The unit is helping Britain's Serious Fraud Office (SFO) on allegations that BAE Systems paid bribes to secure the South African contract. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Indonesian Sukhoi loan deal stuck
A loan between the Indonesian government and Natixis Bank of France for the purchase of six Sukhoi fighters has been waiting for approval by its lawmakers. Three aircraft is ready for delivery but it cannot proceed until payment is made. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Second British B-2 pilot
Meet Squadron Leader Jon Killerby, the only second British pilot ever to fly the B-2 stealth bomber.
EADS threatens to stop A400M development
German magazine Der Spiegel reported that EADS has threatened to freeze production of its A400M airlifter. The weekly cited a letter sent by Louis Gallois to the seven countries that bought the aircraft. External Link | | Permalink | |
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China trains first batch of ship-borne pilots
Two weeks ago, the PLA Daily reported that the Dalian Naval Academy has started its first class of 50 pilots for ship-borne flying. I won't jump the gun and say these pilots are destined for China's aircraft carriers as the article didn't give much clues. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Saturday, September 20, 2008
UAV to UAV docking soon
A historic testing of the first in-flight docking of two unmanned aerial vehicles is to be carried out soon by Cobham. Cobham will carry out the testing at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona for over a week. Both aircraft will dock together through an extendable refueling boom with drogue and an extended probe. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Indonesia plans Hawk replacements
Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff Marshal Subandrio said Thursday he plans to propose a replacement for the Hawk trainers from Squadron 15. Currently only two aircraft are airworthy and the aircraft's life will expire in 2011. External Link | | Permalink | |
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NGC will get termination fee for KC-X
The Pentagon is negotiating with Northrop over a termination fee for the canceled KC-X contest. "We haven't entered into discussions yet that would lead to an appropriate settlement," Northrop spokesman Randy Belote said. "We are waiting for instructions from the Air Force."
Setting the Record Straight on F-35
In a teleconference hastily called by Lockheed Martin, Maj. Gen. Charles R. Davis, F-35 program executive officer, said U.S. Air Force analyses show the F-35 Lightning II is at least 400 percent more effective in air-to-air combat capability than the best fighters currently available in the international market. Speaking on recent media reports that the F-35 was thrashed by Russian fighters in wargames. Davis said: "The reports are completely false and misleading and have absolutely no basis in fact. The August 2008 Pacific Vision Wargame that has been referenced recently in the media did not even address air-to-air combat effectiveness. The F-35 is required to be able to effectively defeat current and projected air-to-air threats. All available information, at the highest classification, indicates that F-35 is effectively meeting these aggressive operational challenges." External Link | | Permalink | |
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New hot-pit refueling point pumps up pilot flight hours
A new fixed-wing hot-pit refueling station at MCAS Yuma has saved thousands of man-hours and increased the number of daily flights. It could take 2-3 hours to cold fuel an AV-8B Harrier and get it back in the air, said Lance Cpl. Nick Stamm, Marine Attack Squadron 214 hot-pit technician. The hot-pit allows a Harrier to refuel in 15 minutes and be ready to taxi back to the runway. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Denel considers joining Embraer C390 project
Denel Saab Aerostructures (DSA) is considering joining the Embraer C390 military transport aircraft project. "DSA is currently in the process of preparing a formal quote to Embraer for participation in the C390 programme," reports Denel group executive: technical major general (Retd) Otto Schür. External Link | | Permalink | |
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RoKAF chief resigns
South Korea's Deputy Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Lee Kye-hoon will replace Kim Eun-ki who tendered his resignation. The move is part of reshuffling of the armed forces by President Lee Myung-bak. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Russia successfully tests new ballistic missile
Russia on Thursday tested a Bulava ballistic missile from a submarine from the White Sea. "At 7:05 p.m. (1505 GMT) the test warheads hit their targets," a defense ministry official said, quoted by state news agency RIA Novosti. "The launch and flight of the rocket went according to plan." External Link | | Permalink | |
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Spotting Report: RAAF Williamtown/Newcastle Airport (NTL/YWLM)
Mike Yeo has a spotting report from RAAF Williamtown along with photos of F-15s from Oregon ANG's 173rd Fighter Wing training in "Sentry Downunder" with the RAAF 2nd Operational Conversion Unit (OCU). Report is after the jump. Airport overview
RAAF Base Williamtown (IATA: NTL, ICAO: YWLM) is a Royal Australian Air Force base located 14 kilometres (9 mi) north of Newcastle, New South Wales (27 km (17 mi) by road). Although a military airfield, it shares its runway with Newcastle Airport, a civilian terminal.
Williamtown is the RAAF's principal fighter base and currently home to F/A-18 Hornet fighters (operated by 2 Operational Conversion Unit, 3 Squadron and 77 Squadron), BAE Hawk 127 Lead-In Fighters (operated by 76 Squadron) and Pilatus PC-9 training aircraft operated by the Forward Air Control Development Unit. It is also home to a number of headquarters and other units such as the Australian Defence Force Warfare Centre and Surveillance and Response Group.
Williamtown is the future home of 2 Squadron RAAF, with the Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning & Control aircraft.
In addition to its military units, RAAF Williamtown is the home to Fighter World, a museum dedicated to fighter aircraft.
Getting there
Located on the NE coast of New South Wales' Hunter Valley, Williamtown is about 2 hours drive north of Sydney. In addition, the airport is connected to Brisbane, Melbourne, Canberra and the Gold Coast by budget airlines Jetstar and Virgin Blue. In addition, Qantaslink, Birindella, Aeropelican and Norfolk Airways run services to various regional Australian destinations from Newcastle/RAAF Williamtown.
No. 30 Fighter Combat Instructor's Course
For the first time in around a decade, elements of the US Air Force took part in exercises around RAAF Williamtown. 6 F-15 Eagles, first from 114 Fighter Squadron/173 Fighter Wing the of the Oregon Air National Guard, and subsequently a similar number of aircraft from the 199 FS/154 FW of the Hawaii ANG, are taking part in Dissimilar Air Combat Training with F/A-18 and F-111 pilots of the RAAF.
The course, which began on 30 June and will conclude on 22 December 2008, will provide participating Royal Australian Air Force F/A-18 and F-111 pilots and Air Combat Officers with the highest possible level of fighter combat skills.
The ANG aircraft and pilots will be at Williamtown to support the course from 20th August 2008 to the 20th of September, with the Oregon ANG participating in the first two weeks and the Hawaii ANG taking over in the last fortnight. In addition, a USAF KC-135R provided tanking support during the first fortnight, and numerous USAF C-17s provided logistical support for the exercise.
Spotting at RAAF Williamtown
The airport itself is serviced by one runway; Runway 12/30. Given its status as the main RAAF fighter base and in light of today's security climate, kudos must be given to the RAAF for its good sense in maintaining an enthusiast-friendly climate at the base surroundings. There are benches set down just outside the fence line at the end of Runway 30's threshold in a perfect position for enthusiasts to sit down and watch landings at Runway 30 and the roar of takeoffs from Runway 12. Take note that it is however forbidden to shoot photos beyond or across the fence as it is RAAF property, and several signs warn of this.
Walk a few hundred metres up the road and you will arrive at Fighter World museum, a nice little place dedicated to fighter aircraft, mostly in the context of the RAAF. The museum consists of 2 military-style buildings and among the indoor exhibits in the main building are 2 Mirage IIIs (a Mirage IIIO and IIID, both ex-RAAF), a Sabre Mk.31, Spitfire Mk. VIII, Gloster Meteor and even a MiG-21UM painted in Indian AF markings (ex-warbird). There is a secondary building where a number of aircraft are undergoing restoration, including a Bf109 and an ex-Singapore AF Hunter serialled 546.
There are also good vantage points to observe the movements at the airport. A café adjoining the main museum building with several outdoor tables and chairs, and to top it off, a flight of steps at the end of the main building leads to an elevated outdoor view gallery giving commanding views of the civilian airport and its operations. There's even a radio scanner tuned to the airport frequencies, so spotters can listen in and anticipate aircraft movements.
I spent a day at Fighter World on the 9th of September, arriving from Melbourne soon after 0830. A short (~2 km) walk in the spring sunshine brought me to Fighter World Museum. The museum itself opens at 10am, and after paying the A$7 entrance fee, I made a beeline for the observation deck and waited for the flying to start. I didn't have to wait long, for at about 10am the first aircraft lifted off, and for the next hour a steady stream of Hawaii ANG F-15s, RAAF Hawks and Hornets took off. With the wind blowing from East/Southeast most of the day, operations were carried out mainly from Runway 12. The F-15s were a mix of A- and C-models, with the F-15Cs being formerly from the 18th Wing in Kadena, Okinawa. In addition, 2 of the RAAF's special scheme Hornets were also seen; A21-110 in the 20th Anniversary scheme and A21-48, 77 Sqn's flagship with the "Grumpy Monkey" on its tail. Aircraft in the markings of Tindal-based 75 Sqn were also seen, but this was presumably more to do with aircraft pooling between the squadrons than any 75 Sqn involvement in the activities. The morning sorties ended just before noon and a second wave took off from 1430 onwards, with an interesting addition to the aircraft flying being Raytheon's Learjet 35 VH-ESM, possibly providing EW support.
Photography tips
The runway orientation and spotting locations very much favour morning photography, so be there early. If you opt to shoot from the road, a 200mm lens would be sufficient, but shooting from Fighter World would require at least a 300mm on a camera with a 1.6x crop factor.
Condor delivers Hornet
A Antonov AN-124 delivered a RAAF F/A-18 to Williamtown RAAF Base on Sept. 17 after the aircraft had undergo modifications on its center barrel in Canada. Pictures of the delivery in the article. This Hornet is the second to return with the Antonov after a fuselage refit. The Antonov will return in February to take two more Hornets to Canada for the modification. External Link | | Permalink | |
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More MiG-29K for India
The Indian Navy will be able to raise more fighter squadrons as the green light has been given to buy an additional 29 MiG-29K/KB fighters. India bought 16 MiG 29 K/KUB as part of a deal for buying ex-Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Gorshkov in 2004.
Raytheon AIM-9X Block II Missile Completes First Captive Carry Flight
Raytheon has completed the first captive carry test of the AIM-9X Block II air-to-air missile. The Block II Sidewinder will have lock-on-after launch capability via a one-way forward quarter datalink capability.
CH-148 to arrive in Canada in 2010
Peter MacKay, Canada's defense minister, said the new Sikorsky CH-148 helicopter will be delivered in 2010. But he concedes that the aircraft will now cost more after more powerful engines and avionics are installed. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Raytheon Awarded $10 million to Develop New Missile Defense Interceptor
The U.S. Missile Defense Agency has given Raytheon Company $10 million to continue research and development of the Network Centric Airborne Defense Element (NCADE). NCADE is an air-launched weapon system designed to engage short- and medium-range ballistic missiles in the boost and ascent phase of flight. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Lockheed Martin Wins $122 Million Technology Development Contract for Joint Air-To-Ground Missile Program
Lockheed Martin has been awarded a $122 million technology development contract for the Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) system. The next-generation missile will be carried on U.S. Armed Forces rotary-wing, fixed-wing and unmanned aerial system (UAS) platforms. The 27-month contract, awarded by the U.S. Army’s Aviation and Missile Command, with participation by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, is for a competitive risk-reduction phase of the Armed Forces’ next major missile program. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Boeing Delivers 200,000th JDAM Tailkit
Boeing delivered the 200,000th Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) tailkit on Sept. 17, just 10 years after JDAM guidance tailkit deliveries to the United States and allied countries began.
THAAD test aborted
An attempt to shot down an incoming ballistic missile with two THAAD interceptors in Hawaii was aborted after the dummy missile failed shortly after launch. None of the interceptors were launched to intercept the dummy target. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Japanese PAC3 shots down target
A Japanese PAC3 missile system has shot down a ballistic missile target at White Sands, New Mexico.
Spanish P-3 to patrol off Somalia
Spain will send a P-3 maritime patrol aircraft to Djibouti to help to patrol the waters off the coast of Somalia to protect ships from pirates.
F-35 "clubbed like baby seals" was B.S. - Burbage
"To have somebody extrapolating that into clubbing baby seals is pure B.S." That's what Tom Burbage, F-35 program manager, has to say about the recent story in Australia in which it was claimed that the JSF was thoroughly beaten by Flankers in simulated wargames. Burbage said Air Force officers told him the simulated planes were not even flown by real pilots in simulators. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Russia may sell more air defense systems to Iran
Rosoboronexport General Director Anatoly Isaikin told reporters at the Africa Aerospace & Defence-2008 that Russia is negotiating the delivery of more air defense systems to Iran. Contacts between our countries [on delivery of air defense systems] are continuing and we do not see any reason to suspend them," Isaikin said.
Venezuela and Cuba may join Glonass
Russia is discussing with Venezuela and Cuba on allowing both countries to access its Glonass satellite navigation system.
Boeing learning from tanker "saga"
David Bowman, vice president of Boeing tanker programs, told Reuters in an interview at the annual Air Force Association meeting that they are reviewing "lessons learned" from the failed bid to supply tankers to the U.S. Air Force. "The whole process needs to be looked at. I don't think anybody ... wants to go through this again," Bowman said.
Sense-through-the-wall radar for drones
Slate has dug deep into the possibility that the United States is employing "sense-through-the-wall" technologies to track its targets in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Joint probe on air strike in Afghanistan
U.S. Defence Secretary Robert Gates and his Afghanistan counterpart have announced a joint probe into an air strike that killed 90 civilians on Aug. 22. Gates, who is on a visit to Afghanistan, expressed regret over the August 22 incident. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Global Hawk spys on Ike
A Global Hawk from the U.S. Navy's Global Hawk Maritime Demonstration program was used to spy on Hurricane Ike over the weekend. The aircraft from Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Md., flew a 24-hour, 30-minute mission and was over the hurricane for 13 hours. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Young says Boeing tanker was $3billion more expensive
John Young, the Pentagon's undersecretary for acquisition, technology and logistics, said developing the first 68 tankers based on the KC-330 will be $3billion cheaper than Boeing's design. Young said that Northrop promised earlier delivery and that its aircraft "provided more tanker capability and offload rate and was substantially cheaper to develop."
Pentagon buying commercial imaging satellites
The Pentagon has approved plans to buy and launch two commercial-class imagery satellites to complement its classified constellation of spy satellites. But critics say the plan is a waste of taxpayer's dollars as it duplicates existing capabilities from private companies. It will be cheaper to buy the imagery from those companies. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Osprey heading to Africa
The U.S. Air Force is deploying its first CV-22 Osprey aircraft to Africa next month for exercise Flintlock 09. The missions there will help test the CV-22’s unique defenses and terrain-following radar. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Willow Grove unit completes last A-10 deployment
The Pennsylvania Air National Guard unit stationed at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Willow Grove is wrapping up their last A-10 deployment at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan. Despite being the last A-10 deployment for this unit, spirits have remained high.
"It's been pretty impressive," said Lt. Col. Thomas Fennell, 103rd EFS mission planning cell chief. "Everyone focuses on the task at hand and the things we can control versus those we can't." External Link | | Permalink | |
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Boeing to Provide Research and Development for US Army Rotorcraft Programs
Boeing has won three competitive proposals resulting in U.S. Army Technology Investment Agreements with a combined value of more than $19 million. The agreements with the Army's Aviation Applied Technology Directorate cover applied research and development in support of the Rotor Durability Army Technology Objective (ATO) and the High Performance Rotary Wing Vehicle Designs (HPRWVD) program. First, as part of the Rotor Durability ATO efforts, Boeing will work to improve the durability and performance of helicopter rotor blades by developing and testing permanent blade-erosion protection, reliable and maintainable icing protection, improved blade repairability and increased rotor performance concepts. Boeing will demonstrate the resulting durable, high-performance rotor through isolated testing at its Vertical/Short Take-Off and Landing (V/STOL) wind tunnel near Philadelphia.
A second agreement, in support of the HPRWVD program, calls for the design and initial evaluation of an unloaded, lift-offset rotor system that includes a non-rotating wing positioned above the rotor to provide lift in forward flight. The system is projected to meet or exceed the Army's vibration- and noise-reduction goals while enabling higher speeds. Boeing will design and test a new four-blade rotor hub for the lift-offset rotor program, as well as a conventional rotor design and vibration/noise-reducing on-blade flaps to support a lower-risk solution for future versions of the CH-47 Chinook transport helicopter. The lift-offset rotor also will undergo tests at Boeing's V/STOL wind tunnel.
The third agreement supports the Rotor Durability ATO and involves evaluating and demonstrating new, more reliable methods of transferring power and data across the non-rotating airframe to the rotating blade interface. External Link | | Permalink | |
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South African Defence Minister hands over Gripens to Air Force
In a spectacular ceremony at AAD, Africa’s premier aerospace show, South African Gripen fighters are welcomed into the South African Air Force. Defense Minister Mosiuoa Lekota officially handed over the first of the country’s fleet of new generation Gripen fighters to Lt. Gen. Carlo Gagiano, Chief of the South African Air Force. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Univ. of Tennessee professor convicted of giving secrets
A retired professor of electrical engineering at the University of Tennessee was convicted on Wednesday for illegally passing secrets on plasma actuators for Air Force drones to two students from China and Iran. J. Reece Roth was working for Atmospheric Glow Technologies Inc. as a subcontractor when the incident took place. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Defense News article on Hsiung Feng-2E
Taiwan's Liberty Times has posted a recent Defense News article on Taiwan's Hsiung Feng-2E cruise missile. Defense News says Taiwan will start producing 600-kilometer variant next year.
Official press release on crash of F-15J 72-8883
From Asagiri : During air combat training, at 10,000 m, when aircraft was diving and turning left, fan turbine entrance temperatures of both engines overheated to 900 degrees. Throttled to idle positions, and attempted to restart engines, but engines did not restart, and could not restore thrust. Became uncontrollable, and could not maintain altitude or level flight. Pilot ejected, at 800 m. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz
U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz blamed retired generals for the current air tanker fiasco. "My personal view is that military professionals including those who have retired from active service have an obligation to refrain from taking sides in public debates on key acquisition programs," Schwartz said at the Air Force Association's annual conference.
Venezuela interested in Su-35 fighter
The director general of the Rostekhnologii corporation said Venezuela has indicated its interest in getting the Su-35 fighter.
C-5 airlifts C-130 fuselage to Stratton ANGB
On Sept. 10, a 105th Airlift Wing (AW) C-5 Galaxy from Newburgh, N.Y., landed in Stratton Air National Guard Base with precious cargo – a training fuselage of a C-130A that the 143AW in Rhode Island no longer needed.
It was the first time a non-modified C-5 had carried this cargo. And getting the C-130 onto the C-5 was no easy feat. It took more than two years of careful planning to make it happen. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Oceana Air Show 50th anniversary
The Virginian-Pilot caught up with three people long associated with the Oceana Air Show as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Research institute claims eight RuAF aircraft shot down over Georgia
The Center for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies, a Moscow-based independent research institute, has credited Georgia with eight kills during its recent war with Russia. Besides the four confirmed by the Russians, the institute claims the Georgians also shot down a fourth Su-25, an Mi-24 Hind helicopter gunship and two Su-24 Fencer reconnaissance and ground attack aircraft. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Boeing invests to keep C-17 line running
According to Reuters, Boeing has invested hundreds of millions of dollars to keep its C-17 production line running. Boeing is hoping that Congress will fund 15 more C-17 transport planes in a war spending bill for fiscal 2009, which begins Oct. 1. External Link | | Permalink | |
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New Air Force One study
Crain's Chicago Business reported Tuesday that U.S. Air Force is considering options for replacing Air Force One. Boeing will likely face competition from Airbus with its A380.
Tony Robertson Jr., vice-president of Boeing's maintenance, modifications and upgrades division, said the current Bush administration has been briefed on the study, but any decisions on which plane to buy would be made by the next administration, with the goal of getting a new Air Force One into operation around 2017. External Link | | Permalink | |
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DCNS Chief Blames UK for Carrier Postponement
DCNS Chairman Jean-Marie Poimboeuf blamed the British for France's decision to delay buying a second aircraft carrier. Poimboeuf said while his company worked hard to find a way to cooperate with British industry over the CVF but the French company had found no such willingness to cooperate on the British side.
Flight tests of AESAs on F-16 next year
Northrop Grumman and Raytheon plans to flight test their AESA radars for the F-16 next year. Northrop Grumman's Scalable Agile Beam Radar will begin rooftop testing next week while Raytheon's Advanced Combat Radar (RACR) is in laboratory testing.
Northrop Grumman plans to start tests on its Sabreliner testbed, which is fitted with a complete F-16 nose, including radome.
Raytheon wants to go directly to testing on an F-16, citing its radar's commonality with the APG-79 AESA already operational in the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. External Link | | Permalink | |
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IAEA shows proof Iran working on nuclear warhead
The International Atomic Energy Agency on Tuesday showed documents and photographs suggesting that Iran is trying to build a nuclear missile warhead. Herman Naeckerts, the agency's head of inspections in the Middle East region, presented photos and diagrams of Iranian work on re-designing a Shabab-3 missile to carry a nuclear warhead.
Raytheon Cost Cutting Drives Down Supersonic Strike Missile Price Tag to Industry Low
Raytheon will soon complete a major cost reduction initiative for the High-Speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM) Destruction of enemy air defense Attack Module (HDAM). HDAM is an upgrade kit that converts the combat-proven HARM into a long-range, supersonic, precision-strike weapon for non-radiating targets. It upgrades HARM from a suppression of enemy air defense weapon into a destruction of enemy air defense weapon. External Link | | Permalink | |
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RAAF C-130 fleet grounded
Australia has grounded its fleet of 24 C-130 airlifters after one developed an inflight emergency during a training flight near Richmond on Monday night. The airplane had declared an emergency on Monday at 8.25pm after its crew detected a fault with the nosewheel. External Link | | Permalink | |
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EADS pleads for mercy
EADS chief Louis Gallois has written to seven air forces that ordered the A400M military airlifter to ask them not to make it pay fines for delays. Financial Times Deutschland said deliveries of the A400M could be two years later than originally scheduled. External Link | | Permalink | |
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VAQ-134 returning home
The U.S. Navy's only land-based electronic attack squadron in Afghanistan is coming home on Sept. 26. VAQ-134 will return along with four of its EA-6B Prowlers. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Recovery progress underway for Navy P-3Cs
The U.S. Navy is making progress in the recovery of its grounded P-3C Orion aircraft. Currently, 10 of grounded aircraft have been inducted for outer wing modifications, with the first one due to be completed this fall - less than a year after grounding 39 aircraft for structural fatigue concerns. Additionally, the Navy awarded contracts to L-3 Communications Aug. 19 and to Lockheed Martin Aug. 26 for the production of 17 outer wings assembly kits for the P-3C Orion with delivery of the first outer wings scheduled to occur in early 2010. These kits will replace the entire outer wing section, to included Zone 5, which was the area of concern in the groundings. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Navy, Air Force ink Global Hawk-based programs agreement
The U.S. Navy and Air Force Global Hawk-based UAS program officials agreed Aug. 28 to streamline their joint acquisition processes. The Memorandum of Agreement strengthens the services' efforts to leverage development, production, sustainment and upgrade efforts for the RQ-4-based programs managed by the Air Force’s 303rd Aeronautical Systems Group (303 AESG) Global Hawk program and the Navy’s Persistent Maritime Unmanned Aircraft Systems Program Office (PMA-262) which manages the Broad Area Maritime Surveillance Unmanned Aircraft System RQ-4N program
Ex- German PAC-2 systems deployed in South Korea
PAC-2 systems bought by South Korea from Germany have been deployed on South Korean Air Force bases and unidentified locations nationwide. German missile technicians and soldiers who operated the systems are staying in South Korea to help install the Patriots at designated sites, a anonymous source told Korea Times. External Link | | Permalink | |
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INS Hanit tests Barak missile
The Israeli corvette hit by a Chinese C-802 anti-ship missile during the Second Lebanon War had successfully test-fired a Barak anti-missile interceptor last week. INS Hanit returned to service last December. External Link | | Permalink | |
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MIDS-JTRS testing on F/A-18
BAE Systems' multifunctional information distribution system-joint tactical radio system (MIDS-JTRS) is being tested on the U.S. Navy's Super Hornets. A major advantage of the MIDS-JTRS is that its throughput is 1Mbps compared to 256kbps on the Link 16. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Chinese fighter pilot to make spacewalk
Col. Zhai Zhigang from the PLAAF is expected to make China's first spacewalk on board the upcoming Shenzhou 7 mission. He will be accompanied by Liu Boming and Jing Haipeng, both fighter pilots as well. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Swedish neutrality questioned
Norway's Labour Party is questioning if Sweden will supply spare parts during wartime for the Gripen fighter if the aircraft is bought by Norway.
Malaysia seeks eight AWACS
Malaysia's Armed Forces chief General Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Zainal said the armed forces was seeking to include up to eight AEW&C aircraft in its next budget request. "Such a facility will assist in providing the 'eyes and ears' in our day-to-day operations," Abdul Aziz said in an interview in conjunction with the 75th anniversary of the armed forces. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Pakistan fires on intruding American helicopters
Pakistani security officials said yesterday that two American helicopters that intruded into Pakistan were chased away after being fired upon. The incident took place near Angor Adda, according to Pakistan. The Pentagon has denied that the incident occurred. External Link | | Permalink | |
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New Air Force tanker up to four years away
U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Norton Schwartz said a new KC-X contract could up to 36 to 48 months to proceed depending on the new administration. Schwartz told reporters at the annual Air Force Association meeting on Monday that Air Force officials were preparing a wide range of options for the next administration.
Political implications for new Swiss fighter
International Relations and Security Network (ISN) looks at the political roadblocks faced by the Swiss military as it attempts to buy a new fighter jet.
Father & son take to the air
Capt. David Deptula, an F-15 Eagle pilot with the 67th Fighter Squadron and his father, Lt. Gen. David Deptula, Air Force deputy chief of staff for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, flew together in a pair of F-15s on Sept. 4 at Kadena, Japan. General Deptula flew in the back seat of an F-15D with Capt. Jim Schiess in the front seat while his son flew in another F-15. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Boeing Awarded Contract for Radar Upgrade on Saudi AWACS Fleet
Boeing has been awarded a contract for the initial phase of upgrading the radar on Saudi Arabia's fleet of five E-3A Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft. The Foreign Military Sale, not to exceed $42 million, was contracted through the Electronic Systems Center at Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass. This first phase includes a study to determine which parts are obsolete and no longer available, then locating and testing parts obtained from new sources for the modification. Phase one also includes purchase of many long lead parts and the start of software design. The next phase involves production and installation of the Radar System Improvement Program (RSIP) kits, software integration and testing, and crew training. Phase two is scheduled during the time frame of a follow-on contract expected to be awarded in 2009. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Ex-fighter pilot-led team trains flyers on data link network
A team of former fighter pilots and other experts are making sure F-15 and F-16 squadrons are fully prepared to use a sophisticated communication network critical to operational success across the globe. No U.S. fighter squadron can deploy to Iraq or Afghanistan without the critical data link network known as Link 16. The data link is furnished by the Electronic Systems Center. External Link | | Permalink | |
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VZ could be back in the U.S. Navy
Fifty years after retiring its last airships, the U.S. Navy is interested in reviving the use of lighter than air vehicles. Navair issued a request for information on such vehicles last month. External Link | | Permalink | |
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The Air Force’s other blind spot
James B. Armor, Jr., a retired major general from the U.S. Air Force, penned this article saying that the service is losing its focus on space.
Bunker-busting bombs' budget boosted
USA Today reported Monday that the Pentagon is beefing up funding for bunker busting bombs. The Pentagon's Defense Threat Reduction Agency is also working on a spy technology called "Angel Fire" to detect road side bombs.
John Pike, director of Globalsecurity.org, said the bunker busters and Angel Fire is aimed at destroying Iran's nuclear weapons facilities. External Link | | Permalink | |
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No new C-130 replacement for Philippines
Filipino Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. told reporters that he has no plans to buy another C-130 to replace the one lost earlier as this will deplete away cash meant for maintaining other aircraft.
Astra test fired for second time
India's indigenous Astra air-to-air missile has been test fired for a second time on Sunday. The flight was to validate major data parameters captured during the first flight the day before. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Phalanx was only 75% successful in Basra attack
Three RAF servicemen lost their lives after a rocket exploded hit their accommodation huts. The land-based Phalanx failed to sufficiently deflect the rocket away. A Royal Navy officer in charged of the system said the rocket was discovered 16 seconds from impact and one of the guns fired to deflect it away. However it was only 75% successful and the rocket still landed in the camp. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Prince William set to join RAF Search and Rescue
Prince William is to train to become a full-time pilot with the RAF's Search and Rescue Force. He will begin his 18th training course with the RAF in January 2009 and, if successful on the course, would become a fully operational Search and Rescue pilot in 2010 with one of the six UK-based RAF SARF flights. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Erieye for CASA C-295
Saab has unveiled a scale model of EADS Casa's C-295 tactical transport equipped with an Erieye early warning radar. Saab says preliminary studies have been carried out on the ATR as well. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Indian Phalcon too expensive
A retired Indian senior officer said his country was overcharged for three Il-76 Phalcon AEW&C aircraft. Maj Gen (Retd) Mrinal Suman said the same aircraft were offered to China for US$358 million but were sold to India at US$1.1 billion. External Link | | Permalink | |
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China Aviation Museum getting Spitfire
A Spitfire Mark XVI in New Zealand has been sold for a record price of $2.8 million to a Chinese businessman who intends to donate the aircraft to the China Aviation Museum in Beijing.
Panel suggests setting up Air Force Strategic Command
A task force led by former defense secretary James Schlesinger has called for the U.S. Air Force to place all its nuclear forces under a single command. Strategic bombers currently are under Air Combat Command, while the missile force falls under the Air Force Space Command.
UAVs as anti-missile escorts for airliners
Honeywell has filed for a patent to use UAVs armed with chaff and flares as escorts to protect airliners from shoulder-fired missiles. The drone will be controlled by the airliner's flight control system with a datalink. It will fly in formation of the aircraft to provide protection. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. offers 36 Apaches to South Korea at 40% discount
Washington has offered 36 of its Army AH-64 helicopters to South Korea at less than sixty percent of the factory price. The aircraft will be upgraded to the latest Block III standard if South Korea chooses to go ahead with the US$811 million deal. External Link | | Permalink | |
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EADS denies pulling out of KC-X
EADS denied on Saturday over reports that it has threatened to pull out of the contest to supply aerial refueling tankers to the U.S. Air Force. Der Spiegel reported that EADS was frustrated by the Pentagon's decision to delay the contest until the next U.S. President is elected.
Former RAF officer claims UFOs invaded U.K. airspace
Wing Commander Alan Turner, former head of air traffic control at RAF Lossiemouth, claimed that he had tracked a series of unidentified objects soaring over southern England in the summer of 1971. He and 13 others tracked the objects as it took place at RAF Sopley on the south-west coast of England. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Explosions near U.S. naval base in Japan
There were two explosions about half a mile from the Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan on Friday. Local police are investigating if the blasts are related to the arrival of USS George Washington on Sept. 25. External Link | | Permalink | |
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New Polish transport helicopter
NH Industries' NH90 and Sikorsky's S-70I International Black Hawk are running neck to neck to become Poland's next transport helicopter.
South African company working privately on gunship
Advanced Technologies and Engineering from South Africa is working privately on an attack helicopter design. Called the New Attack Helicopter (NAH), it will be a tandem layout with an all-composite airframe with integral infrared suppressors; and an engine, a gearbox and a drivetrain similar to those on the Rooivalk attack helicopter. External Link | | Permalink | |
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The gun is currently being fitted on the CV-22's forward cargo-floor hellhole and the hellhole on the CH-47 is almost similar in dimension. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Saturday, September 13, 2008
SLAF interception of LTTE Zlin 143
This is a detailed account of how a Sri Lankan Air Force F7 fighter managed to shot down a Tamil Tiger Zlin 143 on Tuesday.
Hornet test pilotflies Lancaster
Canadian test pilot Capt. Bobby Reichert recently got his wish to fly the Lancaster bomber, one of only two still flying today.
C-17 crew lands after-dark landing in Antarctica
A C-17 Globemaster III aircrew from McChord Air Force Base, Wash., performed the first known after-dark landing in Antarctica using night vision goggles Sept. 11. The McChord aircrew, consisting of active duty Airmen from the 62nd Airlift Wing and Reservists from the 446th Airlift Wing, verified the C-17's capability to access McMurdo Station, Antarctica, by landing here in complete darkness using night vision technology in combination with reflective cones. External Link | | Permalink | |
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J-10 at China airshow
According to this article, three Chengdu J-10 fighters will be taking part in this year's China airshow in Zhuhai. One will be taking part in the flying display. A H-6 tanker and one JH-7 ground attack jet will take part as well. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Eurocopter successfully leads the first firing campaign of the HAD Tiger using the Spike missile
As part of the development of the HAD (support and destruction helicopter) version of the Tiger, Eurocopter successfully completed a firing campaign using the Spike air-to-ground missile. Seven missiles were fired in El Arenosillo. Five were launched without their main propulsion units, as the sole aim was to validate the helicopter/weapon integration concept and to clear the firing envelope, ensuring that the weapon separated cleanly from the helicopter during firing. This was checked in hover and in forward flight. The other two missiles were able to hit their targets six to eight kilometers away as these infrared guided missiles were equipped with their propulsion units. The first missile was fired in the lock on before launch (LOBL) mode and the second in the lock on after launch (LOAL) mode. Six of the missiles were fired by an all-Eurocopter crew, and the seventh (fired in LOBL launch) by a crew made up of a Eurocopter pilot in the front seat and a Spanish gunner-commander in the rear. All of the missiles were fired successfully. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Inside the cockpit with Sergei Melnikov
Moscow News talks with Sergei Melnikov, a test pilot with Sukhoi, about the past, present and future of military aviation.
India issues tender for naval helicopter
India's defense ministry has issued a tender for 16 naval helicopters. The total number is expected to reach 60 aircraft.
Goodrich to Evaluate Effects of Alternate Fuels for U.S. Air Force Aircraft
Goodrich Corporation has received a contract from Universal Technology Corporation to evaluate the effects of using alternate fuels in Goodrich fuel measurement and management systems on U.S. Air Force aircraft. The initial contract, which runs through November 2008, covers analytical research and testing of the entire fuel system design for F-15 Eagle and F-22 Raptor fighters. Follow-on work is expected to include more than a dozen other aircraft models as diverse as the F-35 Lightning II fighter, UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and V-22 Osprey tilt-rotor. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Friday, September 12, 2008
JASDF F-15J crash
A JASDF F-15J fighter has crashed yesterday around 16:20 30 km southwest of Mishima Island.
The aircraft was reported to have engine trouble and could not maintain level flight. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Washington rejects Israel's request for bunker busters
Washington has turned down Israeli requests for a large numbers of GBU-28 bunker busting bombs and permission to use an air corridor to Iran. The Israelis were told that they have to approach Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki for permission if they want to fly through Iraq to bomb Iran.
Also rejected was a request for Boeing 767 refueling planes to replace Israel's outdated refueling tanker. External Link | | Permalink | |
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NATO E-3 heading to Persian Gulf
A German official said Thursday that NATO's E-3 AWACS will be sent to the Persian Gulf. There were talks earlier that NATO commanders in Afghanistan had requested for AWACS for air traffic control duties. External Link | | Permalink | |
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MySpace for U.S. Air Force
The U.S. Air Force is planning a virtual 3D environment for its airmen and will award the contract to build it next month.
MyBase will have buildings, vegetation, signage, roads, security, a flight line with planes and the ability to exchange documents, photographs and video. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Sukhois splashed Lightning IIs in simulation
The West Australian said the F-35 was comprehensively beaten in highly classified simulated dogfights against Russian Flankers during war games in Hawaii last month. Defense Minister Joel Fitzgibbon said he has demanded a report from the military to judge if the newspaper report is true.
Senate clashes with House on C-27
The U.S. Senate and House are on a collision course over the Joint Cargo Aircraft. The House had slash all funding for the Air Force and cut funding for three of the seven for the Army. But the Senate has fully funded the Army procurement. The Senate gave no procurement money to the Air Force and cut the Air Force’s request for research and development by $10 million. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Tipchak UAVs for Russian Army
Vega Radio Engineering Corp. said several dozen of its Tipchak UAVs will be delivered to the Russian Army in the next few years. The first will be delivered at the end of this year. External Link | | Permalink | |
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RAF Hawk crash photos
Here are some photos of the RAF Hawk that crashed at RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire while being delivered to the Red Arrows. The tailcode for the aircraft is XX320. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Flankers to hold live firing drills
Twenty Russian Su-27 fighters will take part in a live firing exercise in the Volga-Urals military district.
The information was released by Joseph S. Bermudez, Jr., senior analyst with Jane's, and Tim Brown, an imagery analyst.
John Pike from GlobalSecurity.org said the new facility allows the North Koreans to conduct multiple test flights in a short time.
While the United States has not officially confirmed the news, South Korean Defense Minister Lee Sang-Hee told the parliament's defense committee that the site is 80 percent completed.
Spa treatment for legacy Hornets
This is an article on how the Center Barrel Replacement (CBR) program is being carried out by Naval Aviation Depot North Island San Diego.
IAF Cobra gunship crashed
An Israeli Air Force AH-1 attack helicopter crashed on Wednesday shortly after take-off from Ramat David Air Force Base. Eye witnesses said they saw the tail rotor detached before the aircraft went down. Both crew did not survive the crash. External Link | | Permalink | |
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South Korea Opens Aircraft Testing Center
South Korea has opened a new center to test aircraft, tanks, guided weapons or naval combat systems. Link to pictures after the jump. The $91 million state-owned weapons testing center is 150 kilometers south of Seoul.
Secretary Gates cancels air-refueling solicitation
U.S. Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates has canceled the KC-X competition and let the next administration decide its fate. Secretary Gates told the House Armed Services Committee Sept. 10 that he decided the contract cannot be awarded by January, and that rather than award a contract that will be contested, the better idea is to let the next administration make its decision.
Ex-Belgian F-16s handed over to Jordan
Pictures of two ex-Belgian F-16AMs and two F-16BMs being transferred to Jordan yesterday at Kleine Brogel Air Base.
Chavez to fly Tu-160 in Venezuela
Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez said two Russian Tu-160 strategic bombers were in Venezuela on Wednesday for "training flights" and he will pilot one of them. His announcement confirmed an Interfax report in Russia citing the Russian defense ministry saying the bombers would be in Venezuela for training flights over "neutral waters."
RIA Novosti reported that the bombers landed at Venezuela's Libertador airfield and during the flight to the South American country, they were accompanied by NATO fighters.
Northrop Grumman Makes the Case for a 2018 Next-Generation Bomber
A research paper published by Northrop Grumman Corporation's Analysis Center suggests a way for the United States to have a next-generation bomber by 2018. According to the Analysis Center paper, the proposed NGLRS, a stealthy, subsonic aircraft, will overcome the lack of friendly airfields by being able to deliver its payload at ranges exceeding 2,000 miles, unrefueled. Its enhanced survivability features will make it extremely effective at penetrating enemy airspaces undetected. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Upgraded A-50M started tests
Vega Radio Engineering Corp says it has started testing an upgraded A-50M Mainstay AWACS aircraft for the Russian Air Force. "The A-50M is the most complex aircraft and we have successfully modernized it," said Vladimir Verba, general director of the Vega Radio Engineering Corp. "The aircraft is undergoing official tests at present and has shown excellent performance so far."
B-52s roar over Guam during bomber surge
Members of the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron flew surge missions and launched six of its B-52 Stratofortresses on a large scale training flights Sept. 4 and 5 from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. The training mission allowed crewmembers to practice more than the standard two-ship deconfliction plan while maintaining situational awareness of the battlefield, other players and weapons, said Andersen Air Force Base officials.
"This is the first time six B-52s have taken off from Andersen for this type of mission since Operation Linebacker II," said Brig. Gen. Philip M. Ruhlman, the 36th Wing commander. External Link | | Permalink | |
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United Arab Emirates - AVENGER and VMSLP Fire Units (PDF)
Another batch of DSCA notifications came in yesterday. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified the U.S. Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the United Arab Emirates of AVENGER and VMSLP fire units. The sale includes : 78 complete AVENGER fire units including Vehicle Mounted Stinger Launch Platform (VMSLP) fire units (72 Tactical and 6 floats); 780 STINGER-Reprogrammable Micro-Processor (RMP) Block 1 Anti-Aircraft missiles; 24 STINGER Block 1 Buy-to-Fly missiles; 78 Captive Flight Trainers, 16 AN/MPQ64-F1 SENTINEL Radars; 78 AN/VRC-92E Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS) radios; 78 Enhanced Position Location Reporting System (EPLRS) Radios; 20 Integrated Fire Control Stations, S250 Shelters on HMMWVs. External Link | | Permalink | |
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United Arab Emirates - PATRIOT Advanced Capability-3 Missile System (PDF)
The Government of the United Arab Emirates has requested a possible sale of 4 PATRIOT Advanced Capability (PAC-3) Intercept Aerial Missiles with containers, 19 MIM-104D Guided Enhanced Missiles-T with containers (GEM-T), 5 Anti-Tactical Missiles, and 5 PATRIOT Digital Missiles. The estimated cost is $121 million. External Link | | Permalink | |
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United Arab Emirates - Terminal High Altitude Air Defense System (THAAD) (PDF)
The Government of the United Arab Emirates has requested a possible sale of 3 Terminal High Altitude Air Defense (THAAD) Fire Units with 147 THAAD missiles, 4 THAAD Radar Sets (3 tactical and one maintenance float), 6 THAAD Fire and Control Communication stations, and 9 THAAD Launchers. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $6.95 billion. External Link | | Permalink | |
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United Arab Emirates - Surfaced Launched Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (SL-AMRAAM) (PDF)
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified the U.S. Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale of 288 AIM-120C-7 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) as well as associated equipment and services for the Surfaced Launched Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (SL-AMRAAM). The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $445 million. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Boeing Completes Mission System Flight Testing for US AWACS Block 40/45 Upgrade
Boeing has completed mission system flight testing for Block 40/45, the largest upgrade in the history of the U.S. E-3 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) fleet. During a 15-month period from Apr. 2007 to Jul. 2008, Boeing and the Air Force's Joint Test Force flew missions aboard Test System 3, an AWACS test aircraft, to complete the System Design and Development program. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Pentagon believes no S-300 for Iran this year
Eric Edelman, the Pentagon's undersecretary for policy, told the Senate Armed Services Committee on Tuesday that Iran is unlikely to get the S-300 air defense missile system this year. While a Croatian website says Croatia's S-300 has been sold to Iran. Necenzurirano said Libyan ships had docked in Croatia to transfer the equipment to Iran.
Iraqi government confirms interest in F-16
Iraqi Defence Minister Abdel Qader Jassim Mohmmed confirmed on Wednesday that his ministry is interested in the F-16 fighter jet. "This plane is to improve the future ability of the Iraqi army to protect the entire country, including Kurdistan, from any foreign aggression," Mohammed told reporters in Baghdad's Green Zone. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Russia will target American missile defense sites in Europe
A senior Russian general said Wednesday that Moscow could target the missile shield in Poland and the Czech Republic with ballistic missiles. "I cannot exclude that if such decisions are taken by our top military-political leadership, the missile shield in Poland and the Czech Republic and other such objects could be chosen as designated targets for some of our inter-continental ballistic missiles," Gen Nikolai Solovtsov said. External Link | | Permalink | |
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CBAT mission terminated
The U.S. Air Force has decided not to have the Common Battlefield Airmen Training program. "After a thorough review, we have determined the best way forward for our airmen and the combatant commanders is to optimize our existing training venues," said Vicki Stein, current operations spokeswoman for the office of the Secretary of the Air Force. "Therefore, a new training venue is not required." External Link | | Permalink | |
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Project Liberty
Flight International examines how the USAF's Big Safari special projects office aims to modify 37 King Airs into aerial surveillance platforms within a year.
New logo for 120th Fighter Wing
Montana Air National Guard's 120th Fighter Wing is getting a new logo as they convert from the F-16 to the F-15.
The old patch featured a large, brown and gold falcon, mountains and a close-range F-16. The new one has a larger F-15 flying low over more accurately drawn mountains, with smaller silhouettes of two F-15s soaring into the sky. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Twin Mustang in center of dispute
The Commemorative Air Force and the United States Air Force Museum is going to court over the ownership of a F-82B Twin Mustang. A U.S. District Court in Ohio ruled against the Commemorative Air Force back in July. External Link | | Permalink | |
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New KC-X proposal today
Defense News says the Pentagon could release its revised request for proposals for the KC-X today. One industry source said the revised RfP may contain compromises, but "Boeing isn't going to get everything it asked for."
Egypt - UH-60M BLACK HAWK Helicopters
Massive amount of DSCA notifications today, starting first : Egypt has requested a possible sale of 4 UH-60M BLACK HAWK helicopters. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $176 million. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Finland - F-18 Mid-Life Upgrade Program (PDF)
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified the U.S. Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Finland of an F-18 Mid-Life Upgrade Program. The F-18 Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU) Program consists of F-18C/D Fleet Retrofit Kits of the following systems: 79 Multifunctional Information Display Systems/Low Volume Terminals (MIDS/LVT), 70 AN/ARC-210 (RT-1851A(c)) Radios, including Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS), 75 AN/AYQ-9(V) Stores Management System Upgrades, 72 MIDS Electronic Interference Blanking Units, 72 Color Cockpit Displays, 70 Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing Systems (JHMCS) Laser Helmet Shields, 1 AGM-154C Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW) Captive Air Training Missile, 15 AGM-154C JSOW missiles, and 1 Lot JHMCS Spares. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Israel - GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs (PDF)
Israel has requested a possible sale of 1,000 GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs (SDB1) and 150 BRU-61/A SDB1 Mounting Carriage. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $77 million. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Israel - Patriot Missile Fire Unit Upgrades (PDF)
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified the U.S. Congress that Israel has requested a possible sale of 3 PATRIOT System Configuration 3 Modification kits to upgrade 3 PATRIOT fire units to Radar Enhancement Phase 3 (REP-3) and Classification, Discrimination and Identification Phase 3 (CDI-3). The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $164 million. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Kuwait - AIM-120C-7 AMRAAM Missiles (PDF)
The Government of Kuwait has requested a possible sale of 120 AIM-120C-7 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM), 78 LAU-127-B/A Launchers and 78 LAU-127-C/A Launchers. The estimated cost is $178 million. External Link | | Permalink | |
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India - HARPOON Block II Missiles (PDF)
The Government of India has requested a possible sale of 20 AGM-84L HARPOON Block II missiles and 4 ATM-84L HARPOON Block II Exercise missiles. India intends to use the HARPOON missiles to modernize its Air Force Anti-Surface Warfare mission capabilities and improve its naval operational flexibility. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Six more punished for USS George Washington fire
Six sailors have been punished as well for the fire on board aircraft carrier USS George Washington. U.S. Pacific Fleet officials say the six were given nonjudicial punishments, meaning no sailor was discharged, according to The Navy Times. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Romania could choose 2nd hand F-16s
A Romanian official said his country could choose to buy the F-16 as a step towards getting the F-35 in future. Defense state secretary Corneliu Dobritoiu could purchase 24 second hand fighters and 24 attack helicopters instead of buying 48 fighters. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Tomcat at Tobyhanna Army Depot
Here's another F-14 on display. This one has VF-84 colors and can be found at the Tobyhanna Army Depot, Pennsylvania.
Afghan Air Corps faces challenges
Afghan medevac crews would only fly if there is lunch provided their destination. This is one of many problems faced by the Americans as they try to rebuild the Afghan Air Corps.
£1.5m paid for Red Arrows flight
The wife of a multi-millionaire has paid £1.5m to charity for a chance to fly with the Red Arrows. Around £1.65 million was raised for nine seats on board the aerobatics team. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Tamil Tigers aircraft shot down
A Sri Lanka Air Force F7 fighter intercepted and shot down a Tamil Tiger light aircraft this morning. This is the first time that Sri Lankans have shot down a rebel plane. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Russian Air Force learning from recent war
Flight International says Russia is looking to modernizing its fleet from strategic bombers to ground attack aircraft using lessons learned from its recent conflict with Georgia.
Fatter C-130 being looked into
Lockheed Martin is conducting studies for a new version of the C-130 with a wider fuselage. This is to allow a new class of US Army ground vehicles entering service after 2015 to be carried by the airlifter. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Boeing, Airborne Laser Team Begin Firing High-Energy Laser on ABL Aircraft
The Airborne Laser (ABL) aircraft has fired its on board high-energy chemical laser for the first time during ground testing at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. Ground firings of the laser will be followed by flight tests of the entire ABL weapon system, culminating in an airborne intercept test against a ballistic missile in 2009. External Link | | Permalink | |
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India's A-50 AEW to get Russian after sales support
Rosoboronexport said it had contracted Beriev Aircraft Company, the Perm Motors Group and Vega to provide after sales maintenance for India's A-50 AEW aircraft.
Anatolian Eagle 2008/3
USAF F-16s, Italian Eurofighters, Israeli F-15s and F-16s and two NATO E-3s are taking part in Anatolian Eagle 2008/3 from now till Sept. 16 in Turkey.
Japan alarmed by China’s military buildup
Japan's annual white paper released by its Defense Ministry said China has deployed new DF-31A intercontinental ballistic missiles. China also possesses more than a hundred H-6 nuclear-capable medium-range bombers, it warned. External Link | | Permalink | |
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KF-X project back alive
South Korea's Defense Minister Lee Sang-hee has approved a three-year study to develop an indigenous stealth fighter. The Agency for Defense Development will receive financial support of around 100 billion won ($91 million) for preliminary research and development. External Link | | Permalink | |
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New carrier-based fighter tender for Russian Navy in 2010
Russia's sole aircraft carrier will be getting new fighters by 2016 and the Navy will decide between the Su-27KUB Flanker and MiG-29K Fulcrum. "The Russian Navy will adopt new carrier-based aircraft after 2016," said Maj. Gen. Nikolai Kuklev, the deputy commander of Russia's naval aviation. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Pentagon sticking to Dec. date for KC-X
"We've not pulled away from our goal at this point," Bryan Whitman, a Pentagon spokesman, told Reuters of plans to award the KC-X contract in December. But so far the final proposal has been three-weeks behind schedule.
Boeing silent on Lichte's C-17B comments
Boeing officials refused to respond to Gen. Arthur J. Lichte's comments that the C-17B is not needed. Boeing officials said that two federal studies on future U.S. military and humanitarian needs have not been completed. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Zimbabwe K-8 crashed
A Zimbabwe Air Force K-8 jet crashed in Gweru on Friday with two crew members on board, both did not survive. The jet came down near the Thornhill Airbase in Zimbabwe's Midlands town of Gweru during a "routine training sortie." External Link | | Permalink | |
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Balad airlifters complete 25,000th combat sortie
The 777th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron marked a unit milestone Sept. 3 by completing its 25,000th combat sortie since beginning operations at Joint Base Balad in February 2006. The 777th EAS' Airmen and their fleet of C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft have carried approximately 210,000 passengers and more than 98 million pounds of cargo in 31 months, eliminating the need for more than 11,000 convoy vehicles to traverse roads still fraught with improvised explosive devices and other dangers. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Trouble for Joint Cargo Aircraft
U.S. lawmakers plan to slash funding for the Air Force portion to buy the Joint Cargo Aircraft and the Army will get money to buy four instead of seven aircraft.
British Apache crashed in Afghanistan
A British Army Apache helicopter crashed shortly after take off from near FOB [forward operating base] Edinburgh in Helman on Sept. 4. Both crew were unharmed. It is the first British Apache accident in Afghanistan. External Link | | Permalink | |
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B-1 brake incident in Guam
U.S. Air Force investigators blamed a broken parking brake for causing a B-1B bomber to crash into two emergency vehicles on Mar. 7 at Guam. The aircraft had made an emergency landing with a hydraulics problem and after landing the crew shut down all four engines. This caused the emergency brakes to lose pressure.
The bomber rolled forward and hit the vehicles. Investigators also fault the firemen for failing to chock the front wheels. External Link | | Permalink | |
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China and Russia resume talks on stalled transport deal
Rosoboronexport said China and Russia has resumed talks to deliver 34 Il-76 military transport aircraft and four Il-78 refueling tankers. The aircraft's delivery was delayed after Uzbekistan's Tashkent Chkalov Aircraft Association, the manufacturer of the aircraft, refused to sign a production contract with Rosoboronexport at the contract price. External Link | | Permalink | |
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F-22 layoffs in Fort Worth
Two Republican senators warned that the F-22 would have to close and many laid off unless Congress quickly authorizes $523 million toward the purchase of additional F-22s. The plant at Fort Worth builds the midfuselage section of the F-22. The line is scheduled to close in three years. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Blacksheep clear barn
The famous Blacksheep squadron "flew the barn" recently when it launch all its available aircraft at the same time. VMA-214 is preparing for its upcoming deployment. External Link | | Permalink | |
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China to supply 4 AWACS to Pakistan
This piece of news first appeared on Chinese news media and now Pakistan's own media is reporting as well. PAF chief Air Chief Marshal Tanvir Mahmood Ahmed said China will soon supply four AWACS aircraft to Pakistan. Talks have started on buying 30 to 40 FC-20(J-10) fighters as well.
4 new amphibious planes for Russian Navy
Four A-42 (Be-42) amphibious planes will enter service with the Russian Navy by 2013. "The Russian naval aviation will receive four A-42 amphibious planes by 2013, with the first one to be commissioned in 2010," the deputy commander of naval aviation, Maj. Gen. Nikolai Kuklev. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Advanced Tactical Laser close to firing
Boeing's C-130-based Advanced Tactical Laser system could be firing at ground targets by year end, Flight International reports.
Hezbollah says it shot helicopter
Hezbollah has admitted that it shot at a Lebanese UH-1 helicopter last week which resulted in one fatal casualty. The leader of Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, said the shooting was a mistake. A Hezbollah fighter opened fire after being taken by surprise when the aircraft landed nearby. External Link | | Permalink | |
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C-17s evacuate from Charleston
Eleven C-17 Globemaster III aircraft from Charleston Air Force Base evacuated Sept. 4 due to the possibility of severe weather caused by Tropical Storm Hanna. The evacuation of the C-17s began midmorning and continued until about 2:15 p.m. Six of the aircraft relocated to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, while the remaining five were repositioned at Whiteman AFB, Mo. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. Navy Conducts Second Test of Raytheon's Standard Missile-6
The U.S. Navy conducted the second test of Raytheon Company's Standard Missile-6 extended range anti-air warfare missile Sept. 5. Using the newly developed SM-6 active seeker, the missile intercepted a BQM-74 aerial drone. The active seeker, employing the U.S. Navy's legacy command system, autonomously acquired and engaged the target. External Link | | Permalink | |
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General McNabb assumes command of USTRANSCOM
Gen. Duncan J. McNabb assumed command of U.S. Transportation Command in a ceremony Sept. 5. Secretary of Defense Dr. Robert M. Gates presided at the ceremony in which McNabb became the ninth USTRANSCOM commander. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Boeing's C-130 AMP Flight Marks Completion of Software Development
Boeing said that it has completed software development for its C-130 Avionics Modernization Program (AMP). The milestone was achieved following the successful flight test of aircraft AMP 2 (H2.5), conducted by Boeing and the U.S. Air Force on Aug. 18. During the 1.6-hour flight from Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., the combined Boeing/Air Force crew tested the functionality of Core Complete 2.2. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Boeing to Provide C-17 Aircrew Training to Royal Australian Air Force
Boeing has been awarded a $33 million U.S. Air Force Foreign Military Sales contract to provide a C-17 Aircrew Training System (ATS) to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). The contract marks the first international sale of the system. The ATS, which will be located at the RAAF's Amberley base, consists of a Weapons Systems Trainer, a loadmaster station and a learning center. Boeing subcontractor Flight Safety International of Tulsa, Okla., is providing the hardware for the program. Boeing Support Systems is responsible for software development and integration as well as program management. The contract also includes logistics support, to be provided by Boeing Australia Limited. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Two missiles were fired in a joint exercise involving New Zealand's Navy and Air Force. External Link | | Permalink | |
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France needs extra helicopters in Iraq
A French lawmaker says one EC725 and three Tiger attack helicopters needs to be urgently deploy to Afghanistan to support French troops there. Guy Teissier, chairman of the National Assembly defense committee, made the comments after returning from a visit to French troops in Afghanistan. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Iraq shopping for F-16
Baghdad is seeking to buy 36 Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jets, the Wall Street Journal reports. Skeptics are questioning whether Washington is willing to sell such weapons to the new Iraqi government. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Tu-142 Bear-F tests new equipment over Arctic
On Sept. 2-3, Tu-142 Bear-F maritime patrol aircraft from the Russian Navy tested new equipment while flying over the Arctic. A statement said new on-board electronic equipment and weapons-control systems were tested. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Friday, September 05, 2008
San Diego Gas & Electric negligent in helicopter crash
San Diego Gas & Electric was ruled negligent in the crash of a U.S. Marine Corps helicopter in 2004. Four Marines died when their UH-1N crashed into an unlit 130-foot-tall utility tower at Camp Pendleton. They were practicing late-night, low-level flying when the crash occurred. External Link | | Permalink | |
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RAF Reaper fleet to be doubled
The RAF will have six MQ-9 unmanned aerial vehicles in its inventory by next year, Air Marshal Sir Barry Thornton said. The third aircraft will be added next January and two more will be purchased. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Poland to investigate 1943 crash
Polish prosecutors said Wednesday they are investigating the crash of a RAF Liberator bomber in 1943. They want to determine if the crash which lead to the death of its wartime leader was an accident or an assassination. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Georgia's air-defense network linked to NATO
Nato can now see what the Georgians are seeing through their radars as the latter's air-defense network has been plugged into NATO's one. A NATO official explained that the arrangement had been agreed before the war and the actual switching was done only this week. External Link | | Permalink | |
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E-9 accident report released
Pilot error caused the May 1 crash of an E-9 Widget at the Tallahassee Regional Airport in Tallahassee, Fla., according to an Air Combat Command accident investigation board report released Sept. 4. The aircraft's landing gear was not lowered for a touch-and-go maneuver during the routine training mission. There were no injuries or damage to civilian property. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Axed Hornet upgrades save $400 million
Australian Defencse Minister Joel Fitzgibbon said by upgrading only 10 F/A-18 Hornets, the RAAF will save $400 million. Fitzgibbon said investigations have found that the centre barrel section of most Hornets are expected to last longer than earlier estimations. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Clemenceau breakup being challenged in court
A group is challenging the breaking of former French aircraft carrier Clemenceau by Able UK in Hartlepool in the High Court. Friends of Hartlepool says the ship is too toxic and will hurt the Hartlepool community. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Singaporeans fly F-15E for first time
Lt. Col. Lim Chee Meng flew the F-15E for the first time at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base on Aug. 28. He is leading the first batch of Singapore pilots and WSOs to convert to the F-15SG.
The small group of Singaporeans are training with the 4th Fighter Wing's 333rd Fighter Squadron before moving to Mountain Home Air Force Base to form the 428th Fighter Squadron. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Military planes gather at Wright-Patterson to avoid storm
80 F-15E Strike Eagles from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base and 14 F-15 Eagles from the Florida Air National Guard are being flown to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base to avoid Tropical Storm Hanna. The weatherman warned that Hanna could become a hurricane and the aircraft had to be evacuated. External Link | | Permalink | |
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ATK Awarded $97 Million Contract to Develop the Multi-Stage Supersonic Target for the U.S. Navy
Alliant Techsystems announced that it has been awarded a $97 million contract for the design, development, integration, and test of the Multi-Stage Supersonic Target (MSST) by the Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland. The MSST will simulate a two-stage anti-ship cruise missile threat. It consists of a two-stage unmanned aerial target, a launcher, and associated support equipment. The U.S. Navy will use MSST to evaluate the operational effectiveness of weapons/combat systems against next-generation surface-to-surface anti-ship missiles that cruise at subsonic speeds, initiate a separation event, and then make a supersonic dash to the intended target. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Chilean Air Force unveils 767
The Chilean Air Force has replaced its Boeing 707 with a 14-year old 767-300ER. The aircraft formally belonged to Euroatlantic Airways.
RAF Heritage flight
A RAF Eurofighter and a Spitfire both flew a mock dogfight above RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire on Wednesday.
More than 600 veterans and aviation enthusiasts turned out to witness the display. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Air Force hopes to have new tanker soon
Head of Air Mobility Command, Gen. Arthur Lichte, said the U.S. Air Force risks grounding its KC-135 tanker fleet if a new tanker is not selected soon. Lichte praised both aircraft from Northrup Grumman/EADS and Boeing, saying they were outstanding and could do the job.
Each plane, he said, would add unique dimensions to how the Air Force used its tankers in the future.
Large-scale exercises in central Russia
Over sixty Russian Air Force aircraft will be taking part in a large-scale exercise in central Russia from Sept. 8-13.
Lichte : Air Force don't need C-17B
Gen. Arthur Lichte, head of Air Mobility Command, said he doesn't foresee a need for new version of Boeing's C-17 but he may need additional orders of the existing model. Lichte points to the creation of a new African command and an increase in the size of the Army for the additional orders. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Possible C-17 for South Korea
Aviation Week reports that South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Committee has approved a plan to buy "large transport aircraft" for about 700 billion won ($620 million). It is likely to be for the purchase of three or four Boeing C-17 large transports. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Future of Canadian Sperwer in question
Canada plans to retire its Sperwer unmanned aerial vehicles currently in February after spending more than $250 million on the aircraft. The Heron will replace the Sperwer in Afghanistan but some are questioning why retire the aircraft when both could operate together in the theater. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Tomahawks launched from Virginia subs
USS Virginia (SSN 774) conducted the strike portion of its class’ Operational Evaluation (OPEVAL) by launching three Tomahawk Cruise Missiles. Virginia fired two Block III Tomahawks – one from a vertical launch tube and another from a torpedo tube – and one Block IV Tomahawk from a vertical tube between Aug. 28 and 29 in the Gulf of Mexico. These launches mark the first time that a Virginia Class submarine has launched Tomahawk missiles. The Commander, Test and Evaluation Force, which oversaw this testing, will release findings this fall. External Link | | Permalink | |
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WD leads HSAD demo
On Aug. 15, the High Speed Anti-radiation Demonstration (HSAD) Project successfully demonstrated the maturity of an integral rocket ramjet (IRR) propulsion system. The system incorporated nozzleless booster and variable flow ducted rocket ramjet technologies in a controlled test vehicle (CTV) air-launched flight from a QF-4 drone at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico. The telemetry and optical reports confirmed that the CTV boosted and safely separated from the aircraft, accelerated to supersonic ramjet transition speed, completed all IRR transition events, ignited and maintained controlled ramjet gas generator operations, and maintained supersonic sustain phase flight before being commanded to roll-down toward the ground to be flight terminated to facilitate vehicle recovery. The vehicle maintained stable controlled flight throughout its planned flight profile until its planned termination. All flight test objectives were demonstrated. Initial data analysis and post-test visual inspection of the hardware indicates that the vehicle’s systems performed as designed. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Tinker officials set to host bomber summit
Tinker Air Force Base will hold a bomber summit between Sept. 11 and 12. Topics will include the health of the aircraft, sustainability, capability upgrades and modernization efforts. Additionally, Air Combat Command officials will present a bomber roadmap briefing and information about field-level maintenance and operation issues.
Edwards F-22 Raptor performs aerial refueling using synthetic fuel
The F-22 Combined Test Force reached another milestone as an Edwards F-22 Raptor performed aerial refueling using a synthetic fuel -- the first time an Air Force aircraft refueled mid-air using an alternative jet engine fuel.
The test was the culmination of Edwards test points in certifying the F-22's use of the fuel -- a 50/50 mix of JP-8 jet fuel and a natural gas-based fuel. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Hi-tech weapons handling system for new aircraft carriers
The Royal Navy is to get a hi-tech system to automate and track the movement of large quantities of munitions on board its two new aircraft carriers, thanks to a multi-million pound investment by the Ministry of Defence. The system, which will help crews manage the largest ships in the Royal Navy, is part of a £51m package of important equipment contracts for the future aircraft carriers that will be named HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales.
L-3 Selected to Produce New Outer P-3 Wings for U.S. Navy
L-3 Communications announced that its Integrated Systems Group has been awarded a $60.6 million contract to produce new outer wings for U.S. Navy P-3 aircraft. Under the program, L-3 will produce four sets of new wings for the U.S. Navy, which will extend the life of its critical P-3 maritime patrol and surveillance aircraft fleet. The company developed modern tooling that will result in the production of the most advanced wing configuration available, using the U.S. Navy's latest P-3 parts and materials for improved resistance to fatigue and corrosion. External Link | | Permalink | |
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U.S. government sues Boeing over B-1 decoy system cost
The U.S. government has sued Boeing for allegedly inflating the price of the missile-decoy systems for the B-1 bomber. U.S. Attorney Thomas O'Brien said Boeing failed to disclose during contract negotiations that it would outsource the fabrication of parts in the systems that will lead to cheaper prices. If the U.S. Air Force had known, it would have asked for lower prices. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Navy UCAS Demonstrator On Track for First Flight
Northrop Grumman says the first of two X-47B carrier demonstration system air vehicles is well over 50 percent complete and ahead of its build schedule, enabling this first flight in November 2009.
The aircraft is a DC-10-10, N910SF, and is now at a hangar formerly used by Boeing to upgrade the T-38 to C model.
According to Global Security, the aircraft is undergoing airworthiness modifications and routine heavy maintenance carried out by Raytheon. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Missile over Utah
This missile was spotted on Google Maps flying near the town of Circleville in Utah.
Romania to confirm fighter purchase soon
Romanian Defense Minister Teodor Melescanu said on Tuesday that his government will decide in the next week or two which fighter jet to buy to replace its MiG-21. "Very soon, maybe in a week or two, the government will agree on the procedure to acquire the planes," Melescanu was quoted as saying by the local Agerpres news agency. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Iranian Bell 206 crashed
A Bell 206 helicopter from Iran's Army crashed on Sunday at 0510GMT on the outskirt of Isfahan province in central Iran, Fars News Agency reported. The report stated that one of the two on board was injured while the other was missing. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Iran to hold air exercise this month
A Iranian military commander said the Iranian Air Force will hold wargames during the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. "Large wargames of the armed forces' air force will be held in the blessed month of Ramadan," said Iran's armed forces commander-in-chief, Brigadier-General Ataollah Salehi, Fars News Agency reported. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Taiwan don't need F-16C/D
A retired Taiwanese military officer has come forward to say that Taiwan should buy the F-35 instead of F-16C/Ds. Huang Yi Shao said pilot shortages in the Air Force meant that not all 66 fighters being sought can be flown all together as well.
Japan to cut aircraft orders
Tokyo wants to make a 2.2% increase to its defense budget for fiscal year 2009 and buy only 24 new aircraft. Money will be spent to update the F-2 fighter with JDAM capability and upgrade its E-2C and 767 AWACS aircraft. External Link | | Permalink | |
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Taiwan not developing cruise missile capable of hitting Shanghai
In a bid to improve its relationship with mainland China, Taiwan has decided not to develop a version of the Hsiung Feng 2E cruise missile with a 1,000km range. China Times said that however, two versions of the Hsiung Feng 2E with a range of 600 and 800km will be mass-produced.
Iran denies buying S-300
Iran denied on Monday it had bought Russia's S-300 air defense system. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Hassan Qashqavi said: "No such thing is correct."
American spooks fear Russia will supply S-300 to Iran
The U.S. intelligence is worried that by pushing for NATO membership for Georgia and Ukraine. Russia may sell the S-300 air defense system to Iran. Pentagon adviser Dan Goure said the sale to Iran will be a "game-changer", greatly improving Iranian defenses against any air strike on its nuclear sites.
£500m wasted on leasing C-17s
The government squandered almost £500m by leasing C-17s for the RAF instead of buying them outright. London paid a total of £769m to lease the aircraft and then bought them for an additional £220m. The total price over eight years came at £989m. External Link | | Permalink | |
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RoCAF IDF fighter lands on wrong runway
A Taiwan IDF fighter landed on a runway meant for helicopters on Aug. 29 in Tainan. The aircraft was lightly damaged.
RSAF Open House 2008 Aerial Display
Aerial flying display carried by various warplanes from the RSAF during its Open House at Paya Lebar airbase on Saturday.
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